A Player’s Revival Could Signal the End of a 28-Year-Old’s Derby County Spell This January – Opinion
Ryan Nyambe’s future at Derby County looks increasingly uncertain, largely due to the impressive resurgence of Joe Ward, which has pushed the defender further down the pecking order and could result in a January departure.
Derby County find themselves well placed to push on during the second half of the season, making the upcoming January transfer window a crucial period for progress. At the halfway stage of the Championship campaign, the Rams sit 11th in the table, just four points shy of the play-off places. Recent form has been encouraging, with one win and three draws from their last four matches, keeping them firmly in contention.
Overall, it has been a respectable campaign so far for Derby County. However, as is often the case, there is a growing belief that the second half of the season could be even more promising if the club conducts smart business in January. While new signings are expected to strengthen the squad, departures also appear inevitable, particularly for players who have struggled to secure regular playing time.
One such player is Ryan Nyambe, who has seen his role at Pride Park diminish significantly this season.
Nyambe Slips Down the Derby County Hierarchy
Nyambe joined Derby County in the summer of 2023 after spending over a year out of action, following a season-long loan spell at Wigan Athletic. Despite that layoff, he quickly established himself as a reliable option when fit.
During Derby’s League One promotion-winning season, the right-back was a regular starter, and he continued to feature prominently last season, starting 14 of his 17 Championship appearances. Unfortunately, persistent hamstring and knee injuries disrupted his momentum, restricting his minutes and ultimately contributing to his decline in the squad hierarchy this term.
The arrival of Max Johnston was seen as Derby’s long-term solution at right-back, with Nyambe expected to serve as cover. However, when Johnston suffered an injury, it was not Nyambe who benefited. Instead, manager John Eustace turned to Joe Ward.
Ward, now 30, has taken his opportunity with both hands, delivering a series of strong performances that have reignited his Derby County career. His attacking qualities, particularly his crossing ability, have made him Eustace’s preferred choice in Johnston’s absence. As a result, Nyambe has managed just 23 minutes of Championship football since starting the opening three league matches of the season.
More concerning for the defender, he has also been left out of three of the last five matchday squads. With Johnston close to returning and Ward firmly established as the second option, Nyambe’s pathway back into the team looks extremely limited, making a move away increasingly likely.
A January Move Benefits Both Player and Club
At 28 years old, Nyambe still has plenty to offer, and with a contract running until 2027, Derby County would be in a position to recoup a transfer fee should he be sold in January.
Johnston provides pace, energy, and versatility on the right flank, while Ward offers creativity and delivery from wide areas. Between them, Eustace has two contrasting yet dependable options, reducing the need for Nyambe’s more defensively focused skill set. Johnston’s ability to operate as a traditional full-back further lessens the demand for Nyambe’s presence.
A move could allow Nyambe to rediscover regular football, whether with a Championship side lower down the table or a leading League One club. With over 200 second-tier appearances to his name, he brings valuable experience and reliability.
While he may not command a significant transfer fee, his departure would free up funds for Derby County as they look to reshape the squad. For Nyambe, a January exit represents the best opportunity to revive his career and return to consistent first-team action, making it a sensible outcome for all parties involved.
